Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has raised concerns about pilot screening processes after a flydubai flight co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain. The incident, involving flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, unfolded when the co-pilot, an Omani national, reportedly assaulted the captain, causing the aircraft to lose significant altitude before control was regained. Passengers restrained the co-pilot, and another pilot assumed control of the plane.
Netanyahu stated that preliminary investigations suggest the co-pilot underwent “radical indoctrination,” pointing to Islamist radicalisation as a potential motive. He also noted that the co-pilot made statements indicating a desire to die. The Israeli Prime Minister highlighted this as a possible gap in the procedures for vetting pilots from countries lacking diplomatic ties with Israel, such as Oman.
In light of the incident, Netanyahu emphasized the need to review the current screening processes for pilots flying into Israel. He mentioned that Israel had been conducting background checks on pilots for specific flights, but this event indicates that those measures might need reevaluation. He assured that authorities are investigating the situation thoroughly to determine any further risks.
Furthermore, the investigation is also considering whether the co-pilot had any connections to Iran, although Netanyahu cautioned that it is too early to draw definitive conclusions. He indicated that more information is expected to emerge in the coming days as the investigation continues.